US10617388B2

US10617388B2 - Integrated probe structure

Info

Publication number: US10617388B2
Application number: US15/399,440
Authority: US
Inventors: II Roman Flores; Matthew Hutter; Gerard Salinas; Michael Costa; Matthew Sylvester
Original assignee: Neural Analytics Inc
Current assignee: Avenue Venture Opportunities Fund LP; Neurasignal Inc
Priority date: 2016-01-05
Filing date: 2017-01-05
Publication date: 2020-04-14
Also published as: US20230050717A1; US11452500B2; EP3399920A1; US20170188994A1; US20200237342A1; CN108778141A; JP2019500155A; WO2017120361A1; EP3399920B1; EP3399920A4

Abstract

According to various embodiments, there is provided a probe structure. The probe structure includes a probe configured to emit acoustic energy. The probe structure further includes a load cell underneath and aligned with the probe. The probe structure further includes a probe hub including a cavity for receiving the probe and the load cell.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/332,133, filed May 5, 2016, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/275,192, filed Jan. 5, 2016, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

BACKGROUND

1. Field

Subject matter described herein relates generally to medical devices, and more particularly to a probe for diagnosing medical conditions.

2. Background

For devices utilizing a probe (e.g., an automated Transcranial Doppler (TCD) device), there exist patient safety concerns related to the placement and alignment of TCD probes against a human being's skull. This safety concern exists within the structure of an automated robotic headset or manual operation of TCD probes. In existing solutions, either manual placement of the TCD probe or the complexity of the TCD probe mechanism may not be optimal. Currently there is no method to observe the amount of pressure or force exerted on a patient's temporal window or skull and thus there are no mediums to monitor patient discomfort during an automated or manual TCD probe placement.

SUMMARY

In general, various embodiments relate to systems and methods for providing an integrated probe structure incorporating a probe integrated with a gimbal structure or probe hub.

In some embodiments, the probe structure further includes a probe seat interposed between the probe and the load cell.

In some embodiments, the probe hub includes a lengthwise slot.

In some embodiments, the lengthwise slot is configured to align and retain a cable connected to the probe and a wire connected to the load cell.

In some embodiments, the wire connected to the load cell is held statically within the lengthwise slot while the cable of the probe is configured to move along the lengthwise slot.

In some embodiments, the probe structure further includes an adhesive layer between the load cell and a bottom of the cavity of the probe hub.

In some embodiments, the load cell further includes a probe seat interposed between the probe and the load cell and an adhesive layer between the probe and the probe seat.

In some embodiments, the adhesive layer includes epoxy.

In some embodiments, the load cell includes a protrusion and the probe includes a hollow for receiving the protrusion for securing the load cell and the probe together.

In some embodiments, the probe structure further includes a probe seat interposed between the probe and the load cell, wherein the probe seat has a through hole such that the protrusion of the load cell threads through the through hole and the hollow of the probe.

In some embodiments, the probe hub is configured to house the load cell and a portion of the probe.

In some embodiments, the cavity of the probe hub includes an inner diameter that is substantially equal to an outer diameter of the portion of the probe.

In some embodiments, the cavity of the probe hub includes a first inner diameter corresponding to a location of the portion of the probe housed within the cavity and a second inner diameter corresponding to a location of the load cell housed within the cavity, the first inner diameter being different from the second inner diameter.

In some embodiments, the first inner diameter is greater than the second inner diameter.

In some embodiments, the first inner diameter is substantially equal to an outer diameter of the portion of the probe and the second inner diameter is substantially equal to an outer diameter of the load cell.

In some embodiments, the probe structure further includes a probe seat interposed between the probe and the load cell, wherein the first inner diameter further corresponds to a location of the probe seat housed within the cavity.

In some embodiments, the load cell is configured to detect forces exerted against the probe along a plurality of axes.

In some embodiments, the probe includes a transcranial Doppler (TCD) probe.

According to various embodiments, there is provided a method of manufacturing a probe structure. The method includes providing a probe configured to emit acoustic energy. The method further includes aligning a load cell underneath the probe. The method further includes providing a probe hub including a cavity for receiving the probe and the load cell.

According to various embodiments, there is provided a system for detecting neurological conditions of a subject. The system includes automated robotics configured to position a probe structure with respect to the subject. The probe structure includes a probe configured to emit acoustic energy. The probe structure further includes a load cell underneath and aligned with the probe. The probe structure further includes a probe hub including a cavity for receiving the probe and the load cell.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a TCD probe previously known in the art.

FIG. 2 illustrates a robotic headset for incorporating a TCD probe.

FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of an integrated TCD probe structure according to various embodiments.

FIG. 4 an exploded view of an integrated TCD probe structure according to various embodiments.

FIG. 5 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of an integrated TCD probe structure according to various embodiments.

FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of an integrated gimbal probe structure according to various embodiments.

FIG. 7 illustrates a side view of an integrated gimbal probe structure according to various embodiments.

FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of a TCD probe adapted for use with an integrated gimbal probe structure with a cover according to various embodiments.

FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of an integrated force center probe according to various embodiments.

FIG. 10 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of a TCD probe adapted for use with a three piece integrated gimbal probe structure according to various embodiments.

FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective exploded view of a TCD probe adapted for use with an integrated gimbal probe structure integrated with a cover according to various embodiments.

FIG. 12A illustrates a perspective view of an integrated probe structure according to various embodiments.

FIG. 12B illustrates an exploded view of the integrated probe structure shown in FIG. 12A according to various embodiments.

FIG. 12C illustrates a perspective cross-sectional view of the integrated probe structure shown in FIG. 12A according to various embodiments.

FIG. 13A illustrates a perspective view of an integrated probe structure according to various embodiments.

FIG. 13B illustrates a transparent perspective view of the integrated probe structure shown in FIG. 13A according to various embodiments.

FIG. 13C illustrates an exploded view of the integrated probe structure shown in FIG. 13A according to various embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The detailed description set forth below in connection with the appended drawings is intended as a description of various configurations and is not intended to represent the only configurations in which the concepts described herein may be practiced. The detailed description includes specific details for providing a thorough understanding of various concepts. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that these concepts may be practiced without these specific details. In some instances, well-known structures and components are shown in block diagram form in order to avoid obscuring such concepts.

FIG. 1 illustrates a side view of a prior art TCD probe 102 pressed against a human being's skull 104. In the prior art, when a TCD probe 102 was manipulated by a human operator (e.g., a skilled sonographer operating a TCD probe), it was not critical to reduce the size of the TCD probe 102.

FIG. 2 illustrates a robotic headset 106 mounted on a human being's skull 104. To facilitate automated TCD scans without the use of a human operator manipulating a TCD probe, it would be advantageous to reduce the size of a TCD probe so that it would fit within a reasonably sized headset 106.

FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of a TCD probe 202 mounted in a gimbal 204 for use in a robotic headset 106. While this specification frequently discusses TCD probes, in general, the techniques and devices discussed herein specifically described as using TCD can also be employed in various embodiments using probes for methods such as ultrasound, transcranial color-coded sonography (TCCS), phased arrays, as well as other known ultrasound energy modalities. Additionally, other techniques that use probes that emit or receive energy in the electromagnetic spectrum such as functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIRS) or EEG can also be employed. In some embodiments, the gimbal 204 includes a pivoted support that allows for rotation of an object (e.g., the probe 202), about an axis (e.g., about a single axis). In some embodiments, the gimbal 204 is a probe hub. Further disclosure regarding the probe hub is described below. A data/power cable 206 allows for the flow of electricity to power the TCD probe 202 and the flow of data from the TCD probe 202. The gimbal 204 allows the TCD probe 202 to pan and tilt.

FIG. 4 illustrates an exploded view of the TCD probe 202 connection to the gimbal 204. To allow for connection of the TCD probe 202 to the gimbal 204, the TCD probe 202 is fastened, typically with glue, to a thrust plate 208. The thrust plate 208 has a plurality of legs 210 a, 210 b, 210 c, 210 d designed to mount in and align with corresponding receiving holes 212 a, 212 b (other holes 212 c, 212 d not shown). The thrust plate 208 is secured to the gimbal 204 by snap rings (not shown) on the bottom of the gimbal 204. Other methods of fastening known to those of skill in the art may also be employed, such as, but not limited to, interfacing (e.g., counter sunk features). A load cell 214 is fastened, typically with a form to fit counter sunk feature for initial alignment and with glue for stabilization, to the gimbal 204, and is designed to fit between the gimbal 204 and thrust plate 208. As is known in the art, a load cell 214 is a transducer that is used to translate physical phenomenon into an electrical signal whose magnitude is proportional to, in this case, the force being measured. Wires 216 extending from the load cell 214 provide electrical signals (e.g., data and power signals) emanating from the load cell 214 responsive to the force on the load cell 214. In operation, when the TCD probe 202 is pressed against a human being's skull 104, a force will also be imparted through the interfacing thrust plate 208 to the load cell 214, which will result in an electrical signal which can be measured.

FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective cross-sectional view of the of the TCD probe 202 connected to the thrust plate 208, which is in turn in contact with the load cell 214 connected to the gimbal 204.

FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of an integrated gimbal TCD probe 300 and FIG. 7 illustrates an elevation view of the integrated gimbal TCD probe 300. The integrated gimbal TCD probe 300 reduces the number of components compared to the embodiment of FIG. 4. The integrated gimbal TCD probe 300 has a TCD probe 302 capable of transmitting ultrasound waves into a human being's skull 104. The ultrasound waves are transmitted through the transducer face 303 which is pressed against the skin of a human being's skull 104. The TCD probe 302, rather than being cylinder shaped, has a tapered portion 304 adapted to receive a cover (as shown in FIG. 8). Beyond the tapered portion 304, the TCD probe 302

probe body

306 extends to a gimbal mount 314. The gimbal mount 314 has a plurality of tapped

holes

310 a, 310 b, designed to mount with and allow for fastening of the gimbal mount 314 to a gimbal interface. A data/power cable 312 extends from the gimbal mount 314 of the integrated gimbal TCD probe 300 such that it has proper clearance from the gimbal.

FIG. 8 illustrates a TCD probe 402 having a shape similar to the integrated gimbal TCD probe 300 shown in FIG. 6. The TCD probe 402 has a tapered portion 404 adapted to receive a cover 406. The cover 406 mounts snugly to the tapered portion 404 to prevent a patient's skin from being pinched between the TCD probe 402 and any other mechanism of the robotic headset 106. Further, in operation, gel is typically placed on a transducer face 408 of the TCD probe 402 to provide improved conductivity between the skin of the patient and the transducer face 408. Employing a cover 406 snugly mounted with the tapered portion 404 will act to help prevent gel from moving past the tapered portion into the rest of the mechanism of the robotic headset 106. If gel were to move into the mechanism of the robotic headset 106, the gel may degrade operation of the robotic headset 106 or may require that the robotic headset 106 be cleaned from time to time to remove unwanted gel.

FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of an integrated force center probe 500. The integrated force center probe 500 includes a TCD probe 502 capable of transmitting ultrasound waves into a human being's skull 104. The TCD probe 502 has a tapered portion 504 adapted to receive a cover (as shown in FIG. 8). Below the tapered portion 504, the TCD probe 502 probe body 506 extends to a gimbal mount 514. Between the gimbal mount 514 and the probe body 506, an overmold piece 516 connects the gimbal mount 514 and the probe body 506. The gimbal mount 514 has a plurality of tapped holes 510 designed to mount with and allow for fastening of the gimbal mount 514 to a gimbal. A data/power cable 512 extends from the gimbal mount 514 of the integrated gimbal TCD probe 500 such that it has proper clearance from the gimbal.

FIG. 10 illustrates a cross-sectional side view of the integrated force center probe 500. A load cell 508 is molded into the bottom of TCD probe 502 having a probe body 506. The assembly of the load cell 508 and TCD probe 502 is then molded to gimbal mount 514 such that when the load cell 508 contacts the gimbal mount 514 a specific pre-defined preload is applied to a button 518 on the load cell 508. The gimbal mount 514 and probe body 506 are then molded together with an overmold piece 516. A data/power cable 512 extends from the gimbal mount 514 of the integrated force center probe 500 such that it has proper clearance from the gimbal.

FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective view of an exploded portion of the integrated force center probe 500 oriented in a direction opposite that of FIG. 10. This view does not show the gimbal mount 514 or the data/power cable 512. Load cell 508 is mounted within a recess or countersink 520 of the probe body 506. Wires 522 extending from the load cell 508 provide electrical signals emanating from the load cell 508 responsive to the force on the load cell 508. The wires 522 exit the probe body 506 through a recess 524 in the probe body 506.

FIG. 12A illustrates a perspective view of an integrated probe structure 1200 according to various embodiments. FIG. 12B illustrates an exploded view of the integrated probe structure 1200 shown in FIG. 12A according to various embodiments. FIG. 12C illustrates a perspective cross-sectional view of the integrated probe structure 1200 shown in FIG. 12A according to various embodiments.

Referring to FIGS. 12A-12C, the probe structure 1200 includes a probe 1202, a probe hub or gimbal 1204, a probe seat 1206, and a load cell 1208. In some embodiments, the probe 1202 includes a first end (e.g., the end that is free and facing empty space) and a second end that is opposite to the first end. In some embodiments, the first end includes a concave surface that is configured to be adjacent to or contact a scanning surface. The concave surface is configured with a particular pitch to focus generated energy towards the scanning surface. In some embodiments, the probe structure is a Transcranial Doppler (TCD) apparatus such that the first end of the probe is configured to be adjacent to or contact and align along a human head (e.g., a side of the human head), and the first end of the probe 1202 is configured to provide ultrasound wave emissions from the first end and directed into the human head (e.g., towards the brain). In other embodiments, the probe 1202 is configured to emit other types of waves during operation, such as, but not limited to, infrared waves, x-rays, or the like.

In some embodiments, the second end of the probe 1202 is coupled to the probe seat 1206. The probe 1202 includes a hollow 1202A extending though the center of the probe 1202. In some embodiments, the hollow 1202A includes a threaded cavity-type interface. The hollow 1202A allows for alignment amongst the probe 1202, the probe seat 1206, and the load cell 1208. For example, the probe seat 1206 includes a circular ridge 1206A defining a through hole 1206B and the circular ridge 1206A extending upwards into the hollow 1202A of the probe 1202. The circular ridge 1206A includes a lip defining or housing a through hole, and the lip is fitted to extend upwards from the probe seat 1206. While the probe 1202 is coupled or attached to the probe seat 1206 at one side of the probe seat 1206, the load cell 1208 is coupled or attached to the opposite side of the probe seat 1206 such that the probe seat 1206 is interposed between the probe 1202 and the load cell 1208. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the probe seat 1206 is made from any suitable material for transferring the full or almost full force applied to the first end of the probe 1202 to the load cell 1208, such as, but not limited to, a non-metal material (e.g., polyurethane) and the like. In some embodiments, the probe structure 1200 does not include the probe seat 1206 such that the probe 1202 and the load cell 1208 contact each other.

In some embodiments, the probe seat 1206 is affixed to the probe 1202 through an adhesive layer. The adhesive layer may be any suitable material for securely coupling the probe seat 1206 and the probe 1202 together, such as, but not limited to, an epoxy. In other embodiments, the probe 1202 is secured in the probe seat 1206 by any other suitable connecting means, such as, but not limited to, welding, potting, one or more hooks and latches, one or more separate screws, press fittings, or the like.

In some embodiments, the load cell 1208 is coupled to the probe seat 1206. Accordingly, the probe seat 1206 may also function as a load cell register. In some embodiments, the load cell 1208 is configured to take measurements of pressure or force exerted on the probe 1202. In some embodiments, the load cell 1208 is assembled so as to exhibit a preload. For example, the load cell 1208 may be designed to exhibit and include a preload in a range from about 2 Newtons to about 3 Newtons. In some embodiments, because the load cell 1208 is aligned with and proximate the probe 1202 (e.g., coupled to the probe 1202 via the probe seat 1206), a force exerted against the concave surface of the first end of the probe 1202 (e.g., caused by the concave surface being pressed against a human head), is registered and measured at the load cell 1208.

In some embodiments, the load cell 1208 is a transducer that is used to create an electrical signal whose magnitude is proportional to the force being measured. In some embodiments, a wire 1212 extending from the load cell 1208 provides electrical signals generated from the load cell 1208, responsive to the force on the load cell 1208 caused by the probe 1202. During operation, in some embodiments, when the probe 1202 is pressed against a human skull, a force will also be imparted through the probe seat 1206 to the load cell 1208, which can be measured and transmitted by the load cell 1208.

Accordingly, in some embodiments, the probe structure 1200 utilizes the measurements of the load cell 1208 to adjust the pressure exerted by the probe 1202 (e.g., by a robotic apparatus attached to the probe structure 1200). For example, in some embodiments, the probe structure 1200 decreases the force exerted against a human head by the probe 1202 when the pressure measured by the load cell 1208 is determined to be relatively high (e.g., the pressure measurement exceeds a predetermined threshold). In some embodiments, the predetermined threshold is user-defined and can be adjusted as desired.

In some embodiments, the load cell 1208 includes a cylindrical protrusion 1208A extending upwards from the load cell 1208. The protrusion 1208 passes through the through hole 1206B of the probe seat 1206 and extends into the hollow 1202A (or the threaded cavity-type interface of the hollow 1202A) of the probe 1202. Accordingly, the probe 1202, the probe seat 1206, and the load cell 1208 are capable of remaining aligned such that a maximum amount of forced is transferred from the probe 1202 to the load cell 1208. In some embodiments, the load cell 1208 is affixed to a bottom inner surface of the probe hub (or gimbal) 1204 through an adhesive layer. The adhesive layer may be any suitable material for securely coupling the load cell 1208 and the probe hub 1204 together, such as, but not limited to, an epoxy, potting, and the like.

In some embodiments, the probe hub 1204 provides a plurality of single axis pivoted supports and interfaces with links and motors to provide a pan and tilt about respective Y and X axes. In some embodiments, the probe hub 1204 is a gimbal as described above. In some embodiments, the probe hub 1204 has a fitted cavity for receiving and housing a portion of the probe 1202, the probe seat 1206, and the load cell 1208 to provide further security and alignment of the probe structure 1200. The cavity of the probe hub (or gimbal) 1204 includes a counter sunk first inner diameter D1 that corresponds to a location of the load cell 1208 when the load cell 1208 is housed within the probe hub 1204. The first diameter D1 is substantially equal to (e.g., slightly larger than) an outer diameter of the load cell 1208 such that the load cell 1208 does not shift radially while housed in the probe hub (or gimbal) 1204. Accordingly, the load cell 1208 remains axially aligned with the probe seat 1206 and a shaft end of the probe 1202.

Similarly, the cavity of the probe hub 1204 includes a second inner diameter D2 that corresponds to a location of the probe 1202 and the probe seat 1206 when the probe 1202 and the probe seat 1206 are housed within the probe hub 1204. The second inner diameter D2 is substantially equal to (e.g., slightly larger than) an outer diameter of the shaft end of the probe 1202 and the probe seat 1206 such that the probe 1202 and the probe seat 1206 do not shift radially while housed in the probe hub 1204. Accordingly, the probe 1202 and the probe seat 1206 remains axially aligned with the load cell 1208. In some embodiments, the second inner diameter D2 is greater than the first inner diameter D1.

In some embodiments, the probe hub (or gimbal) 1204 has a length long enough to encompass and house the load cell 1208 (e.g., entirely), the probe seat 1206 (e.g., entirely), and a portion (e.g., a substantial portion) of the probe 1202. In some embodiments, the probe hub 1204 is long enough to house approximately 50% of the length of the body of the probe 1202. In other embodiments, the probe hub 1204 is long enough to house more than 50% of the length of the body of the probe 1202 (e.g., about 55%, 60%, 65%, or more). In other embodiments, the probe hub 1204 houses less than 50% of the length of the body of the probe 1202 (e.g., about 45%, 40%, 35%, or less). In particular embodiments, the probe hub 1204 house about 33% of the length of the body of the probe 1202.

In some embodiments, the probe hub 1204 includes a lengthwise slot 1204A. The slot 1204A may extend along the full length of the body of the probe hub 1204. In other embodiments, the slot 1204A extends along less than the full length of the body of the probe hub 1204. The slot 1204A is configured to receive and retain wires and cables originating from the components housed within the probe hub 1204. For example, the slot 1204A receives and retains the wire 1212 originating from the load cell 1208 and a cable 1210 originating from the probe 1202. Accordingly, the wire 1212 and the cable 1210 can be aligned and secured (e.g., during assembly and outside of the probe hub or gimbal 1204) so that they do not become an obstacle during assembly or operation of the probe structure 1200. In some embodiments, the wire 1212 remains static in the slot 1204A, while the cable 1210 is configured to move within the slot 1204A (e.g., flex or otherwise move along the length of the slot 1204A). In some embodiments, the probe hub 1204 further includes a gimbal interface 1214 for attaching to gimbal linkages that can control the probe structure 1200.

FIG. 13A illustrates a perspective view of an integrated probe structure 1300 according to various embodiments. FIG. 13B illustrates a transparent probe housing in a perspective view of the integrated probe structure 1300 shown in FIG. 13A according to various embodiments. FIG. 13C illustrates an exploded view of the integrated probe structure 1300 shown in FIG. 13A according to various embodiments.

The probe structure 1300 includes a probe housing 1302, a probe 1304, an interconnection structure 1306, and a load cell 1308. In some embodiments, the probe structure 1300 includes an end effector, for example, used in conjunction with a robot arm (e.g., a 6-axis robot arm). The probe housing 1302 covers and houses the probe 1304, the interconnection structure 1306, and the load cell 1308. The probe 1304 extends through a top opening of the probe housing 1302. The interconnection structure 1306 provides the framework of the probe structure 1300 for securing the components together. The load cell 1308 is located adjacent to the probe 1304 (e.g., directly underneath the probe 1304). The probe structure 1300 can be used in connection with a robotic arm (e.g., a robotic arm including multiple degrees of freedom, such as, but not limited to, six degrees of freedom).

Although the present disclosure illustrates and describes an integrated probe system including a load cell for detecting force exerted against a probe in a single axis (e.g., along an axis that is perpendicular to the upper surface of the probe facing a scanning surface), in some embodiments, the load cell and the integrated probe system may be configured to detect forces in a plurality of axes. For example, the integrated probe system may be configured to detect force exerted against the probe along two axes, three axes, four axes, five axes, or six axes. In some embodiments, the probe is continuously adjusted to maintain a normal position along a scanning surface using a load cell that detects force along a plurality of axes (e.g., along six different axes).

As used herein, the terms “approximately,” “substantially,” “substantial” and “about” are used to describe and account for small variations. When used in conjunction with an event or circumstance, the terms can refer to instances in which the event or circumstance occurs precisely as well as instances in which the event or circumstance occurs to a close approximation. For example, when used in conjunction with a numerical value, the terms can refer to a range of variation less than or equal to ±10% of that numerical value, such as less than or equal to ±5%, less than or equal to ±4%, less than or equal to ±3%, less than or equal to ±2%, less than or equal to ±1%, less than or equal to ±0.5%, less than or equal to ±0.1%, or less than or equal to ±0.05%. For example, two numerical values can be deemed to be “substantially” the same or equal if a difference between the values is less than or equal to ±10% of an average of the values, such as less than or equal to ±5%, less than or equal to ±4%, less than or equal to ±3%, less than or equal to ±2%, less than or equal to ±1%, less than or equal to ±0.5%, less than or equal to ±0.1%, or less than or equal to ±0.05%.

The above used terms, including “attached,” “connected,” “secured,” and the like are used interchangeably. In addition, while certain embodiments have been described to include a first element as being “coupled” (or “attached,” “connected,” “fastened,” etc.) to a second element, the first element may be directly coupled to the second element or may be indirectly coupled to the second element via a third element.

The previous description is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the various aspects described herein. Various modifications to these aspects will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles defined herein may be applied to other aspects. Thus, the claims are not intended to be limited to the aspects shown herein, but is to be accorded the full scope consistent with the language claims, wherein reference to an element in the singular is not intended to mean “one and only one” unless specifically so stated, but rather “one or more.” Unless specifically stated otherwise, the term “some” refers to one or more. All structural and functional equivalents to the elements of the various aspects described throughout the previous description that are known or later come to be known to those of ordinary skill in the art are expressly incorporated herein by reference and are intended to be encompassed by the claims. Moreover, nothing disclosed herein is intended to be dedicated to the public regardless of whether such disclosure is explicitly recited in the claims. No claim element is to be construed as a means plus function unless the element is expressly recited using the phrase “means for.”

It is understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps in the processes disclosed is an example of illustrative approaches. Based upon design preferences, it is understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps in the processes may be rearranged while remaining within the scope of the previous description. The accompanying method claims present elements of the various steps in a sample order, and are not meant to be limited to the specific order or hierarchy presented.

The previous description of the disclosed implementations is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to make or use the disclosed subject matter. Various modifications to these implementations will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles defined herein may be applied to other implementations without departing from the spirit or scope of the previous description. Thus, the previous description is not intended to be limited to the implementations shown herein but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. An ultrasound system for use on a subject, the system comprising:

automated robotics configured to position a probe structure with respect to the subject, the probe structure comprising:

a probe that emits acoustic energy and that defines a hollow;

a load cell underneath and aligned with the probe and that comprises a protrusion, wherein the load cell determines a force reading indicating an amount of force exerted against the subject by the probe, wherein the automated robotics adjust the amount of force exerted against the subject by the probe in response to the force reading, and wherein the hollow of the probe receives the protrusion of the load cell for securing the load cell and the probe together; and

a probe hub including a cavity for receiving the probe and the load cell.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the probe structure further comprises a probe seat interposed between the probe and the load cell.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the probe hub includes a lengthwise slot.

4. The system of claim 3, wherein the lengthwise slot aligns and retains a cable connected to the probe and a wire connected to the load cell.

5. The system of claim 4, wherein the wire connected to the load cell is held statically within the lengthwise slot while the cable of the probe is configured to move along the lengthwise slot.

6. The system of claim 1, wherein the probe structure further comprises an adhesive layer between the load cell and a bottom of the cavity of the probe hub.

7. The system of claim 1, wherein the probe structure further comprises a probe seat interposed between the probe and the load cell and an adhesive layer between the probe and the probe seat.

8. The system of claim 7, wherein the adhesive layer includes epoxy.

9. The system of claim 1, wherein the probe structure further comprises a probe seat interposed between the probe and the load cell, wherein the probe seat has a through hole such that the protrusion of the load cell threads through the through hole and the hollow of the probe.

10. The system of claim 1, wherein the probe hub is configured to house the load cell and a portion of the probe.

11. The system of claim 10, wherein the cavity of the probe hub includes an inner diameter that is substantially equal to an outer diameter of the portion of the probe.

12. The system of claim 10, wherein the cavity of the probe hub includes a first inner diameter corresponding to a location of the portion of the probe housed within the cavity and a second inner diameter corresponding to a location of the load cell housed within the cavity, the first inner diameter being different from the second inner diameter.

13. The system of claim 12, wherein the first inner diameter is greater than the second inner diameter.

14. The system of claim 12, wherein the first inner diameter is substantially equal to an outer diameter of the portion of the probe and the second inner diameter is substantially equal to an outer diameter of the load cell.

15. The system of claim 12, wherein the probe structure further comprises a probe seat interposed between the probe and the load cell, wherein the first inner diameter further corresponds to a location of the probe seat housed within the cavity.

16. The system of claim 1, wherein the load cell is configured to detect forces exerted against the probe along a plurality of axes.

17. A method of manufacturing an ultrasound system for use on a subject, the method comprising:

attaching automated robotics to a probe structure for positioning the probe structure with respect to the subject, the probe structure comprising:

a probe that emits acoustic energy and that defines a hollow;

a load cell underneath the probe that comprises a protrusion, wherein the load cell determines a force reading indicating an amount of force exerted against the subject by the probe, wherein the automated robotics are further configured to adjust the amount of force exerted against the subject by the probe in response to the force reading, and wherein the hollow of the probe receives the protrusion of the load cell for securing the load cell and the probe together; and

a probe hub including a cavity for receiving the probe and the load cell.

18. The system of claim 1, wherein the automated robotics are configured to decrease the amount of force exerted against the subject in response to the force reading being above a first threshold.

19. The system of claim 18, wherein the automated robotics are configured to increase the amount of force exerted against the subject in response to the force reading being below a second threshold.